08 May 2017

GUAM PETITION -- RESPECT CHAMORU SELF-DETERMINATION !

The vote for self-determination is a right reserved for the native people of Guam.

Furthermore, the Chamoru Land Trust Act was enacted to protect and ensure Chamoru Homelands are kept for native Chamorus.

These acts of restorative justice must be upheld!

Elected Leaders: Please respect the rights of the native people of Guam to decolonize and thrive in their homeland.

A series of disrespectful acts against the Chamoru people seemed to eclipse what is normally one of the most festive times of the year — Mes Chamoru, a month dedicated to celebrating the Chamoru culture.

Almost daily during the month of March, Guam’s news outlets have reported on military and other encroachment into sacred lands and natural habitats from northern to southern Guam; a court decision against the Chamoru right to self-determination; and Federal threats to the Chamoru Land Trust. For many Chamorus, these actions have sparked the need to remind the community that Guam is i Tano’ i Man Chamoru, the homeland of the Chamoru people.

The language, culture and heritage of the Native people of Guam and the Marianas are what make our archipelago unique in the world. There is no other place on earth for Chamorus to call their homeland. Above all, the Chamoru people, like all indigenous people, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, especially in their native land.